A native of California's central coast, Alex Koppel is the Visiting Professor of Choral Music at the University of Houston’s Moores School of Music. He holds a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from San Jose State University and is currently ABD (All But Dissertation) in the Doctor of Music in Choral Conducting program at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, where he also pursued a minor in Music Education. His undergraduate degree in Music Education, with two areas of emphasis in keyboard and voice, was completed at California State University Fullerton.

An accomplished organist and collaborative pianist, Alex has performed extensively in various capacities. As a collaborative pianist, Alex has been featured in numerous performances, including being a staff collaborator for the California Choral Directors Association’s 2019 ECCO Conference, headlining sessions with Dr. Charlene Archibeque, and for a National ACDA Interest Session led by Jeffrey Benson. Additionally, Alex served as the staff accompanist for various choral ensembles at Indiana University along with several high-caliber choral festivals and music camps. He gigs regularly around the nation and has supported over a dozen musical theater productions as a pit pianist and vocal director. His versatility and skill have made him a valuable collaborator in both choral and instrumental settings.

Alex is known for his inclusive pedagogy and community-oriented approach, having led numerous award-winning programs. His ensembles have received national acclaim, regularly earning top honors at adjudications and festivals. Recent conducting engagements include Beethoven’s Mass in C, Haydn’s Missa brevis Sancti Joannis de Deo, and Fauré’s Requiem. As an Associate Instructor at Indiana University, he prepared significant works including Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, Poulenc’s Gloria, and the world premiere of Shulamit Ran’s opera Anne Frank.

At the University of Houston, Alex conducts the Soundscape (SSAA) and Resonance (TTBB) ensembles, teaches Graduate Choral Seminar, Choral Methods, and Voice for Instrumentalists, and has served as Opera Chorus Master. His commitment to education extends to high school and community settings, with previous directorships at Kirby Preparatory School and Arrowbear Music Camp, and as a sought-after adjudicator and festival conductor.

Alex has studied conducting, piano, organ, and music pedagogy with distinguished mentors such as Betsy Burleigh, Dominick DiOrio, Walter Huff, Chris Young, Cheryl Anderson, and Robert Istad. He has performed under renowned conductors like Eric Whitacre, Thomas Wilkins, John Williams, and Gustavo Dudamel, and on stage with artists including Josh Groban, Tori Kelly, M83, and Andrea Bocelli.